Are you ready for a sweet delight that combines the rich taste of brownies with the freshness of strawberries? In this recipe for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies, I’ll guide you through each step to create a dessert that’s not only gorgeous but also packed with flavor. You’ll learn how to combine fudgy brownies and luscious, chocolate-covered strawberries for an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion! Let’s get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate brownies topped with fresh strawberries creates an indulgent dessert that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and does not require advanced baking skills, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a treat for yourself, these brownies are a crowd-pleaser.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant strawberries and chocolate drizzle not only taste great but also look stunning on any dessert table.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (for coating)
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
To make the best chocolate covered strawberry brownies, you need quality ingredients. The butter gives rich flavor and moisture. Granulated sugar sweetens the batter perfectly. Vanilla extract adds warmth. Eggs bind the mix and create a soft texture.
All-purpose flour provides structure, while cocoa powder brings that deep chocolate taste. Salt enhances the flavors. Semi-sweet chocolate chips offer extra chocolate bits in every bite. Fresh strawberries add juicy sweetness and a pop of color.
For coating, dark chocolate chips create a smooth, shiny finish when melted with coconut oil. This mix of ingredients ensures you get a treat that is both tasty and beautiful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation and Baking
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps with easy removal later.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. When melted, take it off the heat. Stir in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until well mixed.
3. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes. Then, whisk in the eggs one at a time. Make sure it is smooth and mixed well.
4. In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your brownies may turn out tough.
Baking the Brownies
5. Now, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Make sure they are evenly mixed in the batter.
6. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Preparing Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
7. While your brownies bake, prepare the chocolate-covered strawberries. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each round until smooth.
8. Dip each sliced strawberry halfway into the melted chocolate. Place them on a parchment-lined tray to set. Repeat this until all strawberries are coated.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Brownies
For a fudgy texture, use melted butter. This helps create that rich, dense feel. Make sure to mix the batter gently. Overmixing can lead to dry brownies. Stir until just combined; lumps are okay!
Strawberry Coating Tips
To ensure chocolate sticks well, dry the strawberries. Any moisture will make the chocolate slide right off. If you want to switch things up, try white chocolate or add some sea salt on top. You can also use crushed nuts for a fun crunch.
Presentation and Serving
Arrange the brownies on a nice platter. Layer them neatly for a stunning look. For a pop of color, add fresh mint leaves. Drizzle leftover melted chocolate over the top. It adds extra flair and taste.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow the eggs and butter to sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and results in fudgier brownies.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the brownies while baking. They should be taken out when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs for the best texture.
- Chill the Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: After coating the strawberries, refrigerate them for about 15 minutes to set the chocolate faster and keep them firm.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Add crushed nuts, sprinkles, or a dusting of powdered sugar on top of the brownies for extra flair.
Variations
Dietary Adjustments
You can easily make these brownies gluten-free. Just swap regular flour for almond or coconut flour. These options give a nice texture and flavor. For a dairy-free treat, choose dairy-free chocolate chips. They melt well and taste great, keeping the rich chocolate flavor.
Flavor Variations
To mix things up, you can add nuts like walnuts or pecans. Chopped nuts add a nice crunch. You can also use other fruits, like raspberries or bananas, for a fun twist. Experimenting with chocolate types can change the taste, too. Try milk chocolate or white chocolate for something sweet and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Brownies taste amazing with a scoop of ice cream on top. Vanilla or strawberry ice cream pairs well with the chocolate. You can also drizzle extra chocolate sauce over the brownies. This adds a special touch and makes them even more delicious.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Brownies
To keep your brownies fresh, place them in an airtight container. You can layer the brownies with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you have a lot of brownies, you can also wrap them well in plastic wrap.
For refrigeration, store them in the fridge. They stay fresh for about a week this way. If you want to freeze them, cut the brownies into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will freeze well for up to three months.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, these brownies last about one week. If you notice any mold or off smells, it’s best to throw them away. Also, if the brownies become hard or dry, that’s a sign they have spoiled. Always check before eating leftovers!
FAQs
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these brownies in advance. Bake them a day or two before your event. Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. If you want to freeze them, cut them into squares first. Wrap each piece well in plastic wrap and foil. They last up to three months in the freezer.
How do I keep brownies moist after baking?
To keep your brownies moist, store them in an airtight container. Place a slice of bread in the container. This helps retain moisture. You can also cover the brownies with plastic wrap. Avoid leaving them uncovered, as this will dry them out. If they seem dry after a few days, try warming them in the microwave for a few seconds.
What are the nutritional facts for these brownies?
Each brownie has about 320 calories. Here is a basic breakdown:
– Fat: 18 grams
– Carbohydrates: 40 grams
– Protein: 4 grams
– Sugar: 28 grams
These numbers can change based on your ingredients and serving size. Always check your labels for the most accurate info. Enjoy these treats in moderation!
These brownies combine rich chocolate and fresh strawberries for a delightful treat. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step baking, and tips for perfecting both the brownies and the chocolate-covered strawberries. Remember, variations allow you to tailor these goodies to your taste, whether gluten-free or with nuts. Store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Enjoy baking and serving this sweet, easy dessert that impresses every time. You’ll love the smiles they brin
